Every March, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics celebrates National Nutrition Month®. This year’s theme is “Go Further with Food” . The Academy is highlighting how planning meals and snacks with real food ahead of time helps you to eat more healthy. I can’t agree more. Meal planning is key to a healthy diet.
In today’s busy world, many people think that the latest cleanse or shake is the way to get healthy. In my opinion, it is real food that gets you healthy. When you eat correct portion sizes with balanced combinations of complex carbs (whole grains, fruits, and veggies), lean protein (low-fat dairy, lean meats, fish, shellfish, and beans) and heart healthy fats (oils, nuts, and seeds), you will see a decrease in food cravings for sweets and other junk foods. This is why meal planning is so important.
Taking time to meal plan helps to ensure balanced combinations of complex carbs, lean protein, and heart healthy fats at most meals and snacks. Meal planning will lead to positive changes in your energy level, satiety levels, and even your waistline. Check out some of my favorite balanced snacks and meals that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
- 1/4 cup steel-cut oats, topped with 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt and 1 cup fresh raspberries and 4 walnut halves
- 1 tangerine + 16 unsalted pistachios
- 1/2 cup black beans served on top of 1 cup of mixed greens and 1 cup diced veggies + 1 ounce shredded cheese
- 1 small apple + 1 Tbsp of favorite nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
- 1/2 cup bulgur + 3 to 4 ounces grilled salmon + 1 cup steamed green beans with slithered almonds on top
When you plan out your meals, the possibilities of healthy eating are endless. Are you ready to make March your month to meal plan? Get on board and start planning so you too can Go Further with Food!
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